Time Management for High School Students
It’s that time of year again! After a relaxing and hopefully enjoyable summer, it is time to get back into the swing of things. I’m sure none of your children were ready to say goodbye to summer (neither was I) but sadly it is coming to an end. With summer ending and school beginning we thought it would be a good idea to discuss some tips to help high school students readjust.
Yes, all children go through the adjustment process, but high schoolers have a little bit more on their plate. As they go from freshman to senior year, their level of independence rises and so do our expectations. We expect them to wake up on time, have all their materials in their bookbag, homework finished, and have a semi-positive attitude before they walk out of the front door. Then, they must sit through an entire school day, complete classwork, and socialize. Doable? Yes. Easy? No. Good news is with effective time management most if not all the above can be achieved.
Routine. It is helpful to have a set routine so that they know what comes next. Keep in mind that teenagers are adults in their mind, therefore, it is important to give them the freedom to set their own routine. They will feel a sense of control and will be more likely to follow it. For example, let them decide if they want to do homework before or after dinner and if they want to shower at night or in the morning. Have them write it down so that they can hold themselves accountable.
Self-Care Time. Self-care is important and necessary for all of us, but it is essential for our high schoolers. I know you remember high school and how there was a lot more involved than simply attending classes. There were relationship troubles, friendship drama, bullying, and constantly feeling like no one understands. It takes so much emotional energy to make it through a school day so there needs to be time to decompress. When your child is creating their routine make sure self-care time is added. Whether that’s 30 minutes of listening to music or a 20-minute uninterrupted nap. Talk to your children and help them determine which self-care tasks would be the most helpful for their body.
Technology Breaks. Yes, we are all on our phones, tablets, and computers all of the time and that is exactly why we all need technology breaks. Find a time when there are no devices. Primarily, before bedtime. It will help with improving their sleep hygiene and give them time to focus on other interests. Just remember if you set a technology break rule for them, you should also follow it yourself.
These are just a few tips that may be helpful for your teen as they start the new school year. Test them out and keep track of which tip made the most change in your teen’s school day!
Royyanna Young, LGPC
